Murray Dairy Young Dairy Network

The Young Dairy Network provides opportunities for young people looking to develop their skills and create valuable connections to further their career in dairy. 

More than 2,500 young dairy professionals have joined the Young Dairy Network – gaining access to training, farm walks, social events, workshops, leadership programs, industry connections and more.

Get involved

The Murray Dairy Young Dairy Network is for for the region's younger generation of dairy farmers, farm staff, service providers and new entrants to the industry.

It helps its members develop professionally – while ensuring they are supported nationally via a forum for sharing information, exchanging ideas and staying connected.

This valuable initiative is for people aged 16 – 40 who are: 

1. New to dairying

2. New to the industry

3. Local farmers

4. Local dairy service providers.

By joining, you will connect with other young dairy professionals, established farmers, and industry service providers – helping you move forward in the industry.

Activities are delivered by our coordinators and include: 

• Training and workshops 

• Farm walks and study tours

• Social events and Christmas catch ups

• Discussion groups

• Networking with industry stakeholders

• Sponsorship and support for those who are participating in industry leadership activities

• Interstate and overseas event opportunities.

All events are free or low cost, thanks to sponsors Dairy Australia and Gardiner Foundation.

The Murray Dairy Young Dairy Network runs a general Facebook page and one specific for each region group. These are used to communicate opportunites available and upcoming events. Murray dairy also distributes an e-newsletter every second week – subscribe to receive news on events and opportunities in your area.

Young Dairy Discussion Groups

Discussion Groups meet monthly and cover a range of topics relevant to the industry. The format of each session is different, from guest speakers to farm walks and technical demonstrations, to social events and friendly trivia competitions. Some sessions are run during the day, others after evening milking.

There are currently 5 YDN Discussion Groups: Campaspe (Rochester/ Lockington area), Tatura/Kyabram, Numurkah and southern Riverina, North West (Cohuna area). New members are always welcome.

Scholarships and grants

The dairy industry offers a range of scholarships and grants to those who are working, studying or involved in the industry. Scholarships and grants for formal study, leadership programs, study tours, conferences and on-farm development are among the options available. These are promoted through the Murray Dairy social media channels and eNews.

YDN Steering Committee

The purpose of the YDN Steering Committee is to help shape the YDN program for the year including the events, support and the focus of the network. The committee provides important feedback to Murray Dairy and other research, extension and education organisations about how young people in agriculture can be better supported.

Members also represent young farmers and service providers in contributing to some of the industry's major projects. The committee is made up of farmers and service provider representatives from across the Murray Dairy region.